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American Cultural Studies, BA

What is the study of American Cultural Studies?

American Cultural Studies allows students and faculty to address issues such as race/ethnicity, educational equity, social and cultural theory, socio-economic class, as well as gender and sexual orientation while analyzing the formation of identities in societies. The program in American Cultural Studies concentrates on the Americanization process, American character, American cultural institutions and/or cultural values, particularly as these shape our concepts and society. ACS serves those students and faculty who are interested in the study of such questions, but find that important aspects of cultural theory, artifacts and values are not fully revealed by the course of study within a single department or college. The program allows students the opportunity to study issues arising specifically from the cultural diversity in American society. Whenever possible, the program takes advantages of the rich curricular offerings of the various departments and colleges within the university.

Why Should I Consider this Major?

Students who want a liberal arts education of breadth and depth will find that, because of its flexibility, the program adapts well to their needs. The ACS major combines the social sciences with humanities to prepare students with a rich undergraduate background for advanced study in law, domestic social services, public service, government service, education, and graduate work in American studies, ethnic studies and the social sciences.

American Cultural Studies (ACS) prepares students to function and to be successful in an ever increasingly diverse and multicultural society. In line with shifting demographics, the understanding of differentcultures and population groups will be essential within the twenty first century in virtually any field of endeavor. Graduates of the program are especially prepared to go on for further study in the areas of the social sciences, law, public policy, education and social services. Over half of all ACS graduates go on to professional and graduate schools upon the culmination of their undergraduate degree.

- Larry Estrada, Faculty

Within American Cultural Studies we talk a lot about immigration in general, for example the waves of immigration that Europeans, Japanese, Jews, Latinos, etc. have created. My [work as a student] also allows you to see immigration through a different lens, the more personal lens, the lens that allows you to see the many ramifications that it has and the effect on the family.

- Laura Bohorquez, Student

To see more detailed information about this program, please visit our University Catalog: